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Sunday, March 24, 2013

Manning PR

Everyday I hear more and more about how PR has become an industry dominated by women. In fact, according to recent membership figures released by the Institute of Public Relations, women now outnumber men 60:40 in the public relations field. This ratio is particularly relevant to me, as I represent one of only two men in a PRowl, and work for a group of three incredibly successful women in the Real Estate industry. This got me thinking about how a man can succeed in an industry dominated by women. So, to help aspiring male PR professionals, I’ve compiled my top three tips, from my experience thus far, to successfully working as a man in an industry dominated by women.

Learn the Language - Learning the language of any industry is key to success. Any PR professional would agree there is a clear language and method of communicating associated with PR. So, keeping in mind that women dominate this industry, one could argue that women have written this language associated with PR. It is up to us men to become fluent in it. So men, pick up your Rosetta Stone, and start studying, because this is the first step to earning the same success as women in PR.

Dress to Impress - Dressing properly is such a beneficial but understated tool for men in PR. More importantly, this is something that women in PR have been doing right for years. Women in PR know how to professionally brand themselves with their clothes. They know how to make a statement, and how to properly represent themselves. But men can do it too! When choosing the perfect “dress to impress” outfit, remember to keep in mind your surroundings. There is a time and place for everyone’s personal style. It is up to you to know what to wear and when to wear it to make the right impression. Be sure to showcase your personality, and make a statement about yourself.

Play to Your Strengths - Women have incredible strengths in this industry, but it is not these strengths alone that have made women into some of the gatekeepers of PR. It is how they’ve learned to use them for success. For a man to find success in PR, you have to find your own strengths. Brainstorm, boys! What is it that makes you stand out? What creative ideas do you have? Figure it out, and leverage it to make you the person whose name everybody knows.

Having had the opportunity to work with so many talented and intelligent women in both my job and in PRowl, I have seen first-hand why women have earned so much success in this industry. But men can do it too! With a little language study, a bold wardrobe, and a strengths-based strategy, you will have the foundation for success in PR.

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Chris Covone.